You can do this.

I would like to share a story in case it might bring some comfort to others during the holiday season.

Last year, I had an odd thing happen to me the night before Thanksgiving. I think it was real, but maybe it was a dream. I had a really restless night. With Thanksgiving approaching, I had been very anxious and unpredictability emotional. I had been dreading this first major holiday without my Dad and I kept telling myself “I can’t do this.”

Around 2am, I woke up to go to the bathroom. I looked down at my Fitbit and there was a message on it. (For those who don’t own a Fitbit: Messages can pop up for texts or sometimes it will message you when you have been inactive, when you take it off the charger, etc.)

The Fitbit read: “You can do this.”

I really think it was a message from my Dad. I know that probably sounds ridiculous, but in the Grief Share support group I went through, we learned about “miracle moments” and I truly think this was my miracle moment from my dad. Since then, when I start freaking out or feeling myself spiraling into an emotional mess, I just keep telling myself “You can do this. You CAN do this!”

“Since then, when I start freaking out or feeling myself spiraling into an emotional mess, I just keep telling myself ‘You can do this. You CAN do this!'”

So, for everyone who is going through something – a devastating loss, a traumatic change, a type of doubt – during this holiday season, I hope you are able to find an inner voice telling you that “You can do this!” as well.

It seems impossible, but somehow, with the passage of time, faithful family and fantastic friends, and the power of God, we will all get through whatever valley we are facing. Because “You can do this.”

Thornton Wilder once said, “The highest tribute to the dead is not grief but gratitude.”

During this Thanksgiving, while my grief is still extremely raw and constantly with me, I have so much gratitude towards my Dad and to all those who have helped me through this darkest time in my life. Thank you.